Former Opposition leader among new ministers

Former Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa is among six new ministers sworn in at Government House today.

He replaces Wake Goi as Minister for Civil Aviation.

Wake Goi has been moved to Commerce and Industry, replacing Win Bakri Daki, who is awaiting an investigation over a K200 million Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) funding allegations.

Moresby North East MP John Kaupa takes over Environment, Conservation and Climate Change from former Minister and Lufa MP, Simo Kilepa.

Bogia MP Robert Naguri will now head Information and Communication Technology, taking over from Timothy Masiu.

Okapa MP Saki Soloma has been appointed Labour Minister, replacing Kessy Sawang.

Francis Kikin Siune now takes over Education from Lucas Dekena, while Delta Fly MP Agena Gamai replaces his Western brother and Sekie Agisa as Livestock Minister.

Prime Minister James Marape also announced that Health Minister Elias Kapavore will move to Defence, while Dr Billy Joseph will take over the Health Ministry, but retained the National Disaster Ministry, which was under Defence formerly.

William Bando leaves the Coffee Ministry to take up Immigration, while the Coffee Ministry is now offloaded to Miki Kaeok, who will now look after the Transport and Coffee Ministries together.

Speaking after the formalities, Prime Minister Marape says he will also take charge of Correctional Service, Sports, and the National Volunteer Services.

He says the changes are aimed at repositioning the government ahead of the national elections.